British couple feared execution after months in Taliban prisons
British couple detained by the Taliban in Afghanistan for over seven months feared execution as they were moved through multiple prisons before diplomatic efforts secured their release.
Overview
Peter (80) and Barbie Reynolds (76) were held by the Taliban for seven and a half months, moving through 10 prisons in Afghanistan. At times, they feared for their lives.
Arrest and Detention
The couple, who have managed charity training projects in Kabul and Bamiyan since 2009, were arrested on 1 February after a chartered flight from Kabul. No formal charges were ever brought.
- Held in Pul-e-Charkhi maximum security prison
- Spent two months in windowless basement cells
- Moved to above-ground cells with improved conditions
Despite suffering from severe anaemia, Taliban officials said they received proper medical care and respected their rights.
Release through Diplomacy
Qatar mediated their release, which UK minister Hamish Falconer described as "old-fashioned diplomacy". The couple returned to the UK on Saturday and reunited with family.
Life After Detention
Back home, Barbie is looking forward to fresh salad and marmite, while Peter craves baked beans after enduring oily and salty prison meals. They have decided not to return to Afghanistan for now, trusting local Afghans to shape their country's future.
The Reynolds couple endured unclear charges, harsh conditions, and the constant fear of execution before securing their freedom through diplomatic efforts.
This topic was reported by BBC News.
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